By Bob Makin
originally published: 02/14/2025
The Makin Waves Song of the Week, “We’re in This Together,” is the latest single from The NEW Bardots and a track on their new album, “Endless Drool.” PHOTOS BY RICH HALL
With the first single off their new LP, “Endless Drool,” The NEW Bardots deviate just a bit to bring us a message with a rock bottom line.
“We’re In This Together” is a cry for solidarity amongst the masses, an anti-division anthem shot out of the band’s rock ‘n’ roll cannon, and the Makin Waves Song of the Week.
As the Makin Waves Song of the Week, “We’re in This Together” also can be heard between 6 and 8 p.m. on Feb. 14 on “Radio Jersey at ThePenguinRocks.com. If you miss it, you can tune in any time in the archives at The Penguin and Mixcloud.
“With all the division in our country and the world lately, we wanted to use music as a message to say, ‘Hey everyone, look, we’re in this together so just chill and be nice to one another,’” NEW Bardots lead singer Wayne Olivieri said.
The NEW Bardots front man Wayne Olivieri soon will publish a memoir, “The Undiscovered Showman,” about his life in rock ‘n’ roll.
Coinciding with the release of the latest NEW Bardots album on Bongo Boy Records, Wayne soon will publish a memoir. “The Undiscovered Showman: A True Story of Being Almost Famous” is about his life in rock ‘n’ roll.
“I’ve been blessed with lots of very cool friends I’ve made across the years of time, and I've also been very close to achieving that dream that so many in our field have wondered upon yet never seem to actually get there,” Wayne said. “I started crawling up the rock ‘n’ roll ladder at an early age. I've experienced it all: the knowledge I've accumulated, the trusts that I’ve seen broken, the lies, the sex, the drugs, the back stabbing, the empty promises, the ghosting, the fair weather friendships, the business deceptions … Did I mention the empty promises?
“I've also been extremely fortunate to have met some very influential characters in our entertainment genre and had my share of success along the way,” he continued. “Over the years, I would tell my stories at a party or rehearsal or wherever, and I would always hear, "You should write a book,” so I did.”
The memoir has lots of fun stories about a lifelong pursuit for rock ‘n’ roll stardom. “The Undiscovered Showman” is filled with advice, success, disappointment, betrayal, and encounters with top industry executives and celebrities, including a revealing 17-year close friendship with one of the world’s biggest rock superstars.
You can preorder the book here.
The NEW Bardots also feature guitarist Gar Francis, bassist Dan Skye, drummer Johnnie Rago and keyboardist John Croot Jr.
For more about them, visit their website.
Bob Makin has produced Makin Waves since 1988. Follow Makin Waves on Facebook and contact Bob at [email protected].
About the author:
New Jersey Stage is proud to be the home of Bob Makin's Makin Waves column since 2017. His Song of the Week column comes out every Friday. He also writes an Album of the Month and Interview of the Month as well.
EVENT PREVIEWS
The North Jersey Blues Society presents "Blues & Brews" featuring BBD Rhythm & Blues Band on June 21st
(MONTCLAIR, NJ) -- The North Jersey Blues Society presents "Blues & Brews" featuring BBD Rhythm & Blues Band at the Montclair Brewery on Sunday, June 21, 2026. The event runs from 5:30pm to 7:30pm.
Going Acoustic at Quig's to Mark 4 Years with Featured Sets from Emily Drinker and Gina LC on June 22nd
(PHILADELPHIA, PA) -- Four years in, Going Acoustic at Quig's is still doing what it does best: creating a welcoming space where artists feel comfortable to take risks, and audiences are lucky enough to hear it unfold. On Monday, June 22, 2026 the beloved open mic series returns to Quig's Pub for its 4th Anniversary Show, with featured performances from Emily Drinker and Gina LC, alongside the series' signature blend of emerging voices and open mic performers.
Cape May Point Arts and Science Center presents Grammy-Nominated Blues artist Guy Davis on June 24th
(CAPE MAY POINT, NJ) -- On Wednesday, June 24, 2026, musician, storyteller and two-time Grammy Nominee for Best Traditional Blues, Guy Davis, will perform at The Cape May Point Arts and Science Center.
Harmonium Choral Society to have France Tour Send-Off Concert on June 24th
(MADISON, NJ) -- Come hear the joyful and varied repertoire 42 singers from Harmonium Choral Society will take on tour to France on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 at Grace Church (4 Madison Ave) in Madison. Music ranges from Bruckner to Billings and Bernstein, Rosephanye Powell, Elizabeth Alexander, Lucy Cook, Mark Miller and more! The concert is free; donations at the door are welcome. The church is accessible, air-conditioned, and has ample parking. Showtime is 7:00pm.
Lizzie Rose Music Room presents Eric Johanson on Thursday
(TUCKERTON, NJ) -- The Lizzie Rose Music Room presents New Orleans–based Eric Johanson on Thursday, June 25, 2026. He blends sharp songwriting with a deep connection to the guitar, creating music that's dynamic, soulful, and rooted in a mix of rock, blues, and modern influences. Doors are at 7:00pm, showtime is 7:30pm.
American Theater Group and Union Arts Center present Katerina McCrimmon: Naked Concert on June 26th
(UNION, NJ) -- American Theater Group (ATG), in partnership with the Union Arts Center, will present Katerina McCrimmon's acclaimed solo concert, Naked, which has played to sold-out audiences across the country, including at Joe's Pub and Lincoln Center. Directed by Henry Gainza, it will come to the DMK Black Box Theater at the Union Arts Center for one performance only, on Fri.day, June 26, 2026 at 7:00pm.
MPAC presents Straight No Chaser on June 26th
(MORRISTOWN, NJ) -- A cappella favorite Straight No Chaser brings its summer-themed Beach Bash to Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) on Friday, June 26, 2026 at 8:00pm. Tickets range from $57-$114 (All fees included).
Asbury Lanes presents Matthew Curry and Erik Mason Band on June 26th
(ASBURY PARK, NJ) -- Acclaimed singer-songwriter Matthew Curry sets off on his 2026 Spring/Summer "One For The Ride" Tour (named for his new Ruf Records album release) with a performance at Asbury Lanes on Friday, June 26, 2026. Erik Mason Band will open the night. Showtime is 8:00pm.
The The Band Band presents The Last Walz Celebration 50th Anniversary 2026 Tour at The Newton Theatre
(NEWTON, NJ) -- The The Band Band presents The Last Walz Celebration 50th Anniversary 2026 Tour at The Newton Theatre on Saturday, June 27, 2026. Doors are at 7:00pm; showtime is 8:00pm.
Brian Ostering presents The Elvis Spectacular at Middletown Arts Center on June 27th
(MIDDLETOWN, NJ) -- Jersey Shore musician Brian Ostering from The Wag is stepping out of his comfort zone with The Elvis Spectacular - "The Early Years" Concert on Saturday, June 27, 2026 at the Middletown Arts Center. This is the first time he has performed an Elvis show and it's a tribute to his father who helped pass down his passion for Elvis to Brian. I reached out to Brian to learn more about the show.
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